I'm SO glad I added this to my itinerary. My friend Mitsuo (Mitsy), whom I met last year in Dubai, invited me to stay with her for a few days. I love that I was able to see how people live here. A real-life experience, so to speak. That's the true experience—to see how people live day to day. And I'll say it again, we, as people, are more alike than different. Of course, there are little things that are different, and I had to ask, but being able to actually ask and understand why some things are the way they are is so valuable, and I truly appreciate having the opportunity to do so. Like, why there's a faucet connected to the toilet, and then there's a sink right next door. I'm not talking about a bidet, which I love! The heated toilet seats will be missed! See the picture below. But also how to use the shower, because unlike in the States, where you can have a tub/shower combo, here they're set up differently. I'll post that picture below too. It's a small beach town, and there's a small expat community here. Misty had a potluck dinner here on Friday night, so I got to meet other English speakers/foreigners living here in Japan. What a delight that was! I met some really interesting people from all over the world: India, South Africa, the Philippines, the US, and of course, Japan.
I didn't understand what the faucet on the back of the toilet was for. The sink is in a separate room. It's to rinse your hands right away, then go next door to wash your hands with soap. Yes, they laughed with me, but graciously answered all of my questions about ANY and EVERYTHING.
My first day here Mitsy took me to the beach. Beautiful shoreline with restaurants, shops, shrines- I would be here everyday! We also stopped at a local brewery and an Indian restaurant for some good curry!
Just above is Kawakyu hotel and museum. It's quite impressive! Later that day she had planned a potluck, like I said. Great food, and good conversation! Unfortunately, I can't find those pictures...
The next day we went to a UNESCO site-Nachi Falls. It's the tallest waterfall in the country. Beautiful site- too many stairs though-lol! Then we stopped at an aquarium. Lunch and then out with her friends that night. Some of the nicest people I've met!
On the way in that afternoon we stopped by to see Mitsy's husband who joined a community farm and he's really getting into it!
My last day their friends came over to cook(one is a professional chef-yum!!!) We ate well that evening! And great conversation- their from the Philippines, Maria owns the bar we went to the night before and her brother Ron and their cousin came over with wine, dessert, cooked a wonderful pasta dish and Misty made taco's! Great way to end my stay in Shirahama!
I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to spend time in this part of Japan! Plus making and meeting new friends-priceless. I will forever remember my time in Shirahama and truly the highlight of my Japan trip! Thanks again Mitsuo and Ko!!!
